Dr. Daniel Kharrazi, an orthopedic surgeon from Kerlan-Jobe Orthopaedic Clinic in Los Angeles, told the San Diego Union-Tribune that he has "never seen someone come back on the field following surgery from a clavicular fracture in four weeks... if not a little bit longer than that." The implication here being that San Diego Chargers running back Ryan Mathews would only be able to return at the far end of his expected timetable. Kharrazi did not treat Mathews and is only speaking from his personal experience.

Fantasy Analysis:

Even though this doctor did not see Mathews, it does not completely invalidate his opinion. Mathews had been going as high as No. 4 in some fantasy drafts after the trio of Arian Foster, Ray Rice and LeSean McCoy but now could see his average draft position slip out of the first round altogether should this prognosis come true. A great season is still possible though and once he's back on the field, Mathews has to be considered a must-start across all formats. Ronnie Brown and Jackie Battle should split time if Mathews misses any regular season games.

"never seen someone come back on the field following surgery from a clavicular fracture in four weeks... if not a little bit longer than that."........... marques coleston... last year was kept out 3 weeks with a broken clavicle. So i guess i know more than a surgeon